Mike Duran

Mike Duran has been a huge contributor to the Cokeville Rodeo for decades. Mike was the Vice President of the first board formed by the Cokeville Stock & Saddle Club, and was actively involved in the rodeo in different capacities for 10 years.

He reminisced about the very first rodeo put on by the Cokeville Stock & Saddle Club, Memorial Day weekend. These seemingly small pieces of the overall history of the rodeo might seem insignificant, but what a beautiful, collective picture they have painted for all of us.

When they were trying to expand the rodeo grounds from what they USED to be, to what they are NOW…Lynn Dimond and Mike travelled to Smith & Edwards in Ogden to pickup a set of bleachers. Much was happening at that time in terms of new panels and gates and chutes, and these two gentleman took care of the bleachers.

If you were looking for Mike on the day of the rodeos, chances are very high that you would find him helping Lynn Dimond down by the Timed Event chutes. They would sort the animals and get them in order for the contestants.

In 1998, Mike was involved in an unfortunate accident on the rodeo grounds as they were trying to backup a trailer next to the loading chute. Mike’s hand was caught in between the poles and trailer. He had 2 surgeries and had to undergo 4 months of therapy, 3 times a week. Even after all of that, and after all this time, his hand has never fully been the same.

Mike has worked for the Town of Cokeville for 29 years. For much of that time, he would help the rodeo club with the grounds or whatever was needed. He would willingly bring the city equipment over and assist. Mike was given a buckle and honored for his contributions to the Cokeville Rodeo in 2000. What a fitting gift to a man who literally sacrificed his time and talents to the great sport of rodeo.

Mike, we remember those sacrifices you made, as we are the recipients of your hard work and dedication. Thank you.